Need Help With an Immigration Matter?
Whether you are hoping to apply for a visa, green card, U.S. citizenship, or other immigration benefit, or are facing trouble, such as an arrest by immigration authorities or upcoming deportation (removal) proceedings, make sure to consult an attorney who handles immigration matters like yours.
Immigration law is among the most complicated in the United States, and the consequences of misunderstanding it can be severe—from permanently losing out on an opportunity that could have been yours to being deported from the United States and barred from return.
An experienced immigration lawyer will be able to analyze your situation, explain the relevant law to you, and develop a strategy tailored to you and your family. An attorney who knows the system will be able to offer insight as to local procedures and the tendencies of the officers or judges whom you’ll be meeting. As your case moves forward—a process that can take years, due to the slow-moving immigration bureaucracy—you’ll want representation you’re confident in.

Looking for a Lawyer?
At Lawyers.com, you’ll find a user-friendly search tool that allows you to tailor results by area of law and geography. You can also search for attorneys by name. Attorney profiles prominently display contact information, list topics of expertise, and show ratings—by both clients and other legal professionals.

Ready to Meet With a Lawyer?
Before hiring a lawyer or law firm, make sure to speak directly—preferably in person—to the attorney who will be primarily responsible for handling your immigration matter. Consider bringing to the conversation a list of questions and any documentation related to your immigration history. Remember that you don’t need to hire the first lawyer you consult and that, first and foremost, you want a lawyer you trust.

What to Ask a Lawyer
When gathering your thoughts and documents, think about what you’ll want to ask the lawyer. Consider including on your list questions about:

• the lawyer’s experience with issues and cases like yours
• whether the lawyer or assistants in the office speak the language in which you are most comfortable
• the lawyer’s familiarity with the relevant immigration offices and court system
• who else will work on your case
• whether the attorney will charge you on a flat-fee or hourly basis, and what other fees and expenses to expect
• how long the matter might take to complete, and
• the lawyer’s initial impressions of your case and options.